April 19, 1900

John Moore, one of the oldest, if not the oldest citizen of Pike County, celebrated his 91st birthday April 14, 1900 at his home near Watson Station, four miles east of this city. He had all but two of his children with him on the happy occasion. Those present were Thomas R. Moore and family, Jacob Moore and family, Herschel Moore (who lives with and cares for his parents), and W.P. Moore and family. May he live to pass a century mark.

John Moore

Died, at his home near Watson Station Feb. 14, 1903, Mr. John Moore was born on the 14th day of December 1809, in Washington Co., Pa., and came to Pike Co., Mo. in the spring of 1858, and has lived here ever since. He made a profession of religion and united with the Cumberland Presbyterian church at Grassy Creek under the ministry of rev. E. D. Pearson in 1873, and ever adorned by an active Christian life, his profession of christian [sic] faith. When the Cumberland Presbyterian church was organized near Watson Station, he became a charter member, and was loved and honored by the entire church, and it is extremely sad to know that he will be with us no more. He married early in life and was the father of seven children, 6 boys and one daughter, all are still living except one son George, who died several years ago. Al were with him at the time of his death except Charlie, who is in the Philippines. His faithful wife, was able to minister to him in his last sickness. Brother Moore has been a very strong man and was able to go around until about a year ago when he was taken sick. Since then he has been confined to his bed, but did not suffer any pain. It was a pleasure to visit him, he was cheerful and ready to talk upon any subject. He often spoke of his love to God, and said that he was fast wearing away in his life and would soon enter upon the blessed life to come. He said he was ready and prepared to go when the summons comes. I cannot but feel that his was a successful life. He raised a large family of children, and trained them well, and lived to see them all grown and useful citizens, and with one or two exceptions all were church members. His home was pleasant and happy, a place where it was a pleasure to visit, and where as the children married and left, they always loved to return and bring their families with them. The family reunions were looked forward to with pleasure by children and grand children. For several years, ever since old age prevented him from attending to business, his son Herschell [sic] remained at home and managed the farm and rendered every assistance he could to father and mother. Herchell [sic] has indeed been kind and attentive, never tiring in his attention. I pray the Lord's blessing upon him. In the death of father Moore, the church and the whole community feel a loss. He will be missed, for he was full of good works, and the oldest one among us. He was father to us all. But thank God we sorrow not as those without hope, for we believe that he has gone Home, where he is at rest, and where he will recieve [sic] the reward of his labors on earth forever. 

To the sorrowing ones I would say, weep not but try to emulate his many virtues, and may his life help you as live so that you can meet him. May his beloved companion and ever faithful wife, (our mother) be comforted. You did what you could for him here, and it wont be long before you will meet again in the heavenly home. 

His funeral was preached in the home Sunday afternoon by Rev. S. G. Decherd and we followed his remains to the Bethany cemetery, where we buried all that was mortal, and we await the time when we shall be reunited.

S. G. Decherd, Pastor.

© 2000 Rhonda Stolte Darnell